3. Ensuring “the right services at the right time”: Diversion away from inappropriate and expensive systems (i.e., Criminal Justice system, emergency rooms); ensure people receive the appropriate medical, behavioral, and social services they need.

Establish a diversion center with referral to services and treatment that will provide pre-arrest diversion.

Expand Mobile Community Intervention Response Team (MCIRT).

Create best practices and referral systems to addictions specialists and substance abuse treatment providers throughout the county.

As the County-City Task Force continues to refine and implement the action plan, it will improve health, raise awareness, reduce stigma, and address many of the barriers identified in Section I. Participation in the NLC Mayors Institute is timely in give us guidance on how to: Create an effective regional strategy to respond to the opioid epidemic and Shift from tertiary prevention to wellness and primary and secondary prevention.

The City of Tacoma, Pierce County, and our partners are ready to move forward.